Simple Gifts has long respected the playing and performances of local musician Bob Pope. With regards to this, they chose to give Bob’s trio a feature spot for others to enjoy the experience. Bob plays lead guitar and sings lead for Monadnock Bluegrass Band, a Bluegrass Band that tours New England. Peter Cram, the groups Bass Player, is a member of The Concord Chorale, and slums with the group between Chorale gigs. The third member of the group, George Kelly, sings lead, plays hot licks, and harmonizes with the likes of Neil Young, Dolly Parton, and Ricky Skaggs–in his basement. Fun, uplifting, tap your toes music!
The Lied To’s are Doug Kwartler and Susan Levine, two Massachusetts-based singer-songwriters with countless individual awards, performances, tours, song placements, and writing accolades between them. They joined musical forces in 2014, released their debut cd in February 2015, and have been playing together ever since.
Taking their name from the revered Everly Brothers song, “When Will I Be Loved,” The Lied To’s (Susan Levine and Doug Kwartler) collaborate to put the challenges of romantic relationships squarely under their musical microscope. The duo creates a formidable blend of folk, rock and country-tinged music with subject matter keenly focused on the negotiation of these relationships in the wake of difficult times and burdensome pasts.
“Susan Levine has a voice somewhere between Dolly Parton and Maria Muldaur it carries an edgy passion with a wailing want my man quality. – The Noise

“Doug Kwartler has one of those John Mellencamp-ish, longing, honky-tonk voices that make women weak in the knees.” – The Noise

Guests attending Simple Gifts Coffee House performances are invited to bring their own beer or wine to enjoy at the concerts. Coffee, tea, and a variety of baked goods are available at each show.